Get ready for winter driving conditions: Police/MTO

A reminder from both the Ministry of Transportation and the Ontario Provincial Police that tricky road conditions are only a snowfall away.

Drivers are being reminded to plan ahead to stay safe on the roads this winter season, and one of the tools at their disposal is the Track My Plow site. You can see where plows have been and how long ago.

As well drivers can always check Ontario 511, which offers traveler information, such as road conditions, traffic cameras and interactive maps.

Drivers should also put together a winter survival kit for their vehicles, including extra windshield washer fluid, snow brush and booster cables.

It’s also recommended your vehicle have a maintenance check-up, have winter tires installed and that motorists adjust their driving to the conditions.

“We’re already seeing snow in parts of the province, which means that it’s time for everyone to start preparing for the winter driving season. Ontario has some of the safest roads in North America, and we’re committed to improving our winter maintenance operations now and for the future. Drivers can do their part to keep our roads safe by planning ahead, driving carefully in winter weather and staying well back from working snow plows.” – Steven Del Duca, Minister of Transportation

“Drivers are one of our most valued road safety partners and we are counting on them to help keep our roads safe this winter. Adjusting your speed to winter road conditions and driving defensively will go a long way in reducing the risk of being in a collision.” – OPP Deputy Commissioner Brad Blair, Provincial Commander, Traffic Safety and Operational Support

From the MTO:

-Ontario’s roads are among the safest in North America. Winter fatal collisions across the province decreased by 52 per cent from 2002 to 2013
-Winter tires that are in good condition can shorten braking distances by as much as 25 per cent
-More than 1,000 snow plows and salt-sand spreaders are used to fight winter storms on provincial highways
-To meet new service levels Ontario’s maintenance contractors have added 158 pieces of equipment since 2013/14